What causes swollen labia?

Most women of childbearing age have suffered from gynecological diseases, which often require medication to recover. Gynecological diseases often cause itching, but why do some women experience swollen labia? The cause of labia swelling is also related to gynecological inflammation and should be treated by a doctor in time. Some women often take medicine on their own, which is not advisable. Improper use of medicine may cause more serious symptoms.

1. Reasons

Causes of vulvar swelling:

The most common cause of vulvar swelling is irritation from secretions of vulvar infection: inflammation of the reproductive tract caused by fungi, gonococci, Trichomonas, and bacteria, which produces abnormal leucorrhea, as well as irritation from urine (urine thinning, urinary incontinence) and feces (fecal thinning); local itching caused by chemical and drug irritation: direct contact with alkaline soaps, condoms, sanitary napkins, and synthetic underwear. In addition, bad hygiene habits can also cause vulvar swelling.

2. Inspection

Diagnosis and examination of vulvar swelling:

Vulvar swelling, itching and pain mainly occur in the perineum of female friends. For example, itching often occurs in the clitoris and labia minora, and may also spread to the vulva majora, perineum, and even the perianal area. Unexplained vulvar itching and swelling usually only occurs in women of childbearing age or after menopause, often affecting the entire vulva, but may also be limited to a certain part or one side of the vulva. Although the itching is very painful and even unbearable, the local skin and mucous membrane appear normal, or there are only scratches due to excessive scratching. A general gynecological examination is sufficient.

3. Differential Diagnosis

Differential diagnosis of vulvar swelling:

1. Vulvar itching is a symptom caused by various vulvar diseases, but it can also occur in people with completely normal vulva. It is generally more common in middle-aged women. When the itching worsens, the patient is often restless, which affects his life and work.

2. Fungal vaginitis, also known as candidal vaginitis, is more common in young girls, pregnant women, diabetic patients, and postmenopausal patients who have been treated with large doses of estrogen.

Diagnosis: Vulvar swelling, itching and pain mainly occur in the perineum of female friends. For example, itching often occurs in the clitoris and labia minora, and may also spread to the vulva majora, perineum, and even the perianal area.

4. Mitigation methods

Prevention of vulvar swelling:

1. Etiological treatment: Severe vulvar swelling requires professional examination in a regular professional hospital. After the cause is identified, symptomatic treatment should be given under the guidance of a doctor.

2. For local treatment, the doctor may prescribe solution for sitz bath, apply antibiotic ointment, etc.

In addition, to prevent and treat vulvar swelling, you should also pay attention to cleaning in time after each bowel movement to avoid feces contaminating the vulva. Underwear should be made of pure cotton to avoid causing vulvar allergies and itching. If you have pinworms in your body, you should take anthelmintics in time to avoid itching and redness and swelling of the vulva caused by pinworms. Women who have been infected with gynecological inflammation should seek medical attention immediately. The basin and towel used to clean the vulva must be dedicated and should not be used for any other purpose.